BMW i4 M50 detailed review by Tesla owner. Would I swap? Side-by-side comparison v Tesla Model 3
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- Опубліковано 20 січ 2022
- #bmw #i4m50 #model3 #tesla #ev
It’s just not really M enough!
I think the marketing is a bit misleading from BMW. It wears the //M badge but it’s not a full M, only M performance/ M Sport and I just have to keep reminding myself that. //M Sport or performance only, but BMW call it the first full electric //M car…
Anyway I’m a BMW fan, a Tesla owner and experienced with a lot of EV’s so here are my thoughts and a few comparisons after running it for a few days and a few hundred miles. I’ve covered about 40,000 miles in Tesla Model 3’s in the last couple of years plus more in Model S and other EVs. How will it compare?
I focus on it compared to a model 3 performance because they have similar pace, and if you don’t tick options on the i4 it’s at a similar price point;
Tesla 3 Performance £60,000
BMW i4 M50 c.£63,500 BUT add some options and it’s £73,000..
By the way, I don’t compare to Model S because we cannot buy a new Model S in this country right now! Not until 2023. Model S is also bigger all round and really a different category of car to be honest.
I like it, it’s accomplished and very good at many things. But it’s compromised unfortunately. This is because it shares its platform with combustion models and is not a dedicated ground-up EV.
Jack of all, master of none? Well I don’t think that’s fair. It has some great attributes, a brilliant level of ride and refinement. Very comfortable cruiser and autobahn stormer. It will suit some people perfectly. The Model 3 is limited by hatch, and the firm ride is grinding at times but it does all the EV stuff brilliantly.
Let’s see some of my observations and opinions…
Thanks for watching!
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No way would I spend £70k on a "compromise" Great reviews on this Richard, underlines the main points well.
Every car has a compromise. It depends on how much a compromise you would accept and what you want out of a car
@@ukfalcon85 Indeed--some simply won't want the harsher ride which I totally get even tho I've chosen stiffer BMWs over softer ones.
I hardly know people who buy a car instead of leasing. So they care about their monthly payment, not the purchase value
@@johnnielogan948 Leasing is barely on my radar but it seems to usually be an inferior deal from what I hear. I've paid cash up front for every car I ever owned (exception for 1-ton service truck that I paid off early and a business necessity)
I go by the rule: "If I can't pay *double* for it cash, I can't afford it." Most anyone can get by on a cheap old beater Honda or whatever. I did for many yrs.
@@Mrbfgray agree, some people call it old fashioned, but I agree with you
Appreciate the thorough and honest review. I ordered an eDrive 40, and based off this it sounds like its just good enough for me to accept I'm overpaying for a car compared to the Model 3. I'll be keeping my order, but this review really helped me set realistic expectations for the car.
I made my comment above, before test driving the edrive40. Now that I have, and seen it in the flesh, I'm about to order one. It's a fantastic car. So smooth, quiet, well built, luxurious, and still goes like stink. I think I will be happier in the i4, as it's more familiar, like a 4 seires from the future. The range impressed me more than anything. Can't wait!!
You are overpaying for BMW compared to not only Tesla but most other brands due to brand value. But you do also get total quality that exceeds most other brands - based on the parameters I value in a car (quality materials, quality control, ride quality). And then Tesla 3/Y just looks like sh*t compared to the BMW. I love the 4-series looks.
If I could ignore the rest - the Tesla would be the one to buy based on the superior tech.
Have to agree. Loved the detail of this review.
If you value things like comfort and build quality, i4 is the clear choice. As of right now the i4 is maybe even cheaper than a model 3.
BMW over Tesla any day any time
Have one one order and really looking forward to it. Tesla definitely is a better electric care but not a better car overall. Really tried to like the model 3 but can’t get past the interior. From what I’ve seen the M50 has a more sophisticated suspension. To clarify one comment - it was designed to accommodate electric drive from the outset but also ICE so it’s not like earlier cars when electric was an afterthought. In the end it was which car are you going to enjoy being in more and for me its definitely the BMW.
I really like the Kia EV 6.
@@mscolli3 - think both are great cars. Will be nice to finally have some choice.
Have you ever had an EV before?
You are buying TWO things. The car and the charging network. Tesla network is about five years ahead of the BMW network in integration with the in car system.
Good luck. I have just got rid of an i3 for a Tesla. Best decision ever.
@@georgecampbell8402 - Agree completely. We have a Q7 for longer trips. I4 would be the daily driver which is charged at hime.
@@stephenrye6474 Quite how the i4 would not be suitable for 'longer trips' in the UK is beyond me.
The video review does not get over how poor iDrive is for managing trips and charge. When you start a journey with a Tesla a partially charged battery and it will say 'charge at this supercharger for 22 minutes and you will reach your destination with 20% charge remaining'. And it is right, every single time.
Oh, and you don't need an app or a payment card to charge. Plug it in and go. And the charging cable in a Tesla is never going to reach your BMW, the cables are intentially short for the charging points at the rear corners.
I am not making a comment about the vehicle. I am sure it is very nice. But, this review, and people's comments, seem to ignore this most critical part of the purchase. The charging infrastructure.
PS Given that there is speculaton diesel is going to hit £3 per litre, the idea of reducing consumption of diesel is not only financially and environmentally sound, it is also reduces consumption of Russian oil that is thicker and used to make diesel.
The user experience for me with idrove, wireless CarPlay etc in a BMW is a lot better than the Tesla option, in my opinion
We have a Tesla M3LR and recently decided to add another EV. I went through the lot: Taycan 4S, etron GT, iPace, polestar 2, EQC. When I finally got into the i4 it just felt right. Made me think back to my old 650i and reminded me how much I loved the HUD.
I sat in a tesla a couple of times and was ready to request a test drive. I went out with my wife, and we both sat in the tesla together. I tried the light show mode and had a good laugh. Before we test drove, I went to BMW to sit in the i4. I was instantly sold when I sat in the car. I did not bother to go back and drive the Tesla. It is pure personal preference, but I like my buttons. I did not enjoy hunting for controls in the tesla panel. I liked the feel of the BMW better. The tesla s3emed like a toy my daughters would love. The BMW felt like a car I would want.
Love your content. Especially the cut in bloopers and text overlay comments. Fun and informative. Thanks for doing this comparison. Was interested in the new 4 series EVs but think I’ll keep my M3LR order. Ground up EV, lower cost, great performance.
The BMW i4 looks so much better than the Model 3!
Very informative and balanced with many insigts. Front wheels biased driving was very interesting. Pls continue sharing your ideas with us in the future!
The only thing I would say is it keeps being referred to as “An M car”. It isn’t.
It’s an M sport, like a 440i or 340i. They will bring out an M version with another motor and more driving focused set up at some point.
Yes indeed. See in video description I self admit to saying that’s how I wanted it to be. Bmw market it much like that I think. I need to get over that, but that means a true M version of ever they make one will be what, £100k+…?
@@RSEV yeah I’d say £100k ish. But it will be 720bhp + and likely have a lot of clever M division wizardry to justify the price from a drivers perspective. I am considering an i4 M50, but only because I can’t have a Taycan GTS 😂
Thanks for the review, it is making me feel very excited for my i4 m50 delivery sometime soon hopefully.
If you did the video with the lights it'd be great to see it, I've spec'd the visibility pack with shadowline like the test car, so be really interested in seeing what they're like! 👍
Thanks for the objective review. I have a test drive booked in the eDrive 40 model on Friday so looking forward to seeing what it's like. I'm a serial BMW owner and want to be impressed but will wait a bit longer before I spend any money on en EV. Doing so few miles at the moment working from home so it's just not worth changing for me. Let's see what 2022 brings to the table and make a decision later in the year. Thanks again, love the channel!
I'm in precisely the same position, Ben. I really like the idea of the standard i4 with M sport / tech pack but it would just be sat on the drive for 4 out of 5 days a week.
Thank you for the great review! Quite informative for me as a M3P owner and former M240i driver. Would be great if you could test a BMW iX3 LCI. Seems a bid odd, but I think, this could be a hidden gem in their line up. Fully loaded as standard and reasonably priced in Germany.
I Tested I4 and IX, IX is in a different league to i4 to drive and as an EV. Ix also has a lot of iX3 parts. Id still suggest spending more on the iX40 over the ix3. Or buy a Tesla
How do you feel driving fun compares from M240i to model 3 performance? I’m thinking about making the switch myself.
@@Gilamang High-speed punch above 100mph (Autobahn) and brakes were better in the M240i. I liked the compact size of the 2 Series. Everyday fun in the Tesla is very good. Easy to toss around, quite nimble regardless of its size/weight. Instant punch is just brutal... For serious sporty driving (e.g. on tracks like Nordschleife) suspension and especially the brakes are too weak (M3P from Q2/2022 should get improved brake pads according to forums). Overall a compelling package for a BEV, surprisingly cheap to run. Highly recommend a test drive. (ICE cars were somewhat dead for me since fake engine noise via speakers, OPF filters, Automatic Gearbox, etc. Haven't regret switching to BEV and probably will never look back. )
@@VolkerTrue iX3 is indeed a hidden gem, I have a direct comparison to Model 3. If you're a "BMW guy" and like the SUV form, the iX3 may be just for you!
I love how Tesla have completely transformed the car landscape, and forced the bloated old legacy manufacturers to start making significant changes to how they think about cars. Tesla do make the most complete and compelling electric cars, and they absolutely deserve to see the phenomenal sales they have, especially with the Model 3. But its great to see we have so much choice now in the EV world, with pretty much every manufacturer. I don't think its seriously realistic to expect that every human to choose a Tesla over another car, no matter how compelling, and ultimately people don't choose cars with their brains/logic, but with their emotion. BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Jag, Porsche have always appealed more to the emotional heart than the logical brain, and no matter how much better the competing Tesla model might be in range, charging infrastructure, technology, speed, etc, people will always choose the car that fills that emotional space. In the same way, what Nissan, Mazda, Kia, Hyundai etc are offering is something different, and we should all be be happy that finally, after so many years of promise, the EV landscape almost has a car for every personality and budget. That's worth celebrating.
Seeing all the new EVs pop is just awesome. Still I find moving away from my brand new Model 3 extremely difficult. Anything that comes close gets killed by the price and/or missing specs and features. And I hate that! I am so disappointed with the german car makers and I do want to see awesome things from them.
@@Megabear90 I think a BIG issue is there's a lot of similarly priced cars, but then you need to get optional extras to match the base features of a Model 3, resulting in very different prices. Like how the base Model 3 is a similar price to an EV6, but the EV6 is lacking many of the features included in a base Model 3.
Tesla has managed to save a lot of money by avoiding outsourcing, take the audio system for example. In the Model 3 LR and Performance, it is truly amazing. But who made the audio system? It must be BOSE or someone right!? No, it's just Tesla themselves, they hired ex B&O engineers and made their own audio system, which got called 'the best audio system in a car', and then they released the refresh Model S with double the wattage and I believe 7 more speakers! Same happened with the infotainment, made it themselves, said to be the smoothest in a car, then the refresh Model S absolutely destroyed the one in the Model 3. Tesla beats Tesla whilst people are still behind on what Tesla is considering old.
On top of this, when you own a Tesla the car always feels fresh. Take for example the V11 software we just got with the new UI, like it or hate it, the new UI styling makes the interior of the car feel more premium and modern I would say. Also we regularly get fun new features like the custom light shows, live access to sentry cameras, which sentry mode itself was a new feature after I bought my car. The car is just forever changing and software updates are exciting to check out.
I suppose in a nutshell: Against popular belief, paint quality and panel gaps isn't the only thing that makes up a car, Tesla does a really great job. A lot of owners are very excited to show others their cars, enough so that Tesla doesn't advertise, instead their vehicles speak for themselves through reviews like this video. By word of mouth, they have become the best selling vehicle of any type in several countries. :)
Absolutely one of the best comparison video’s I have seen so far. Very well done 👏🏼
I have one on order. I am thinking of just flipping over to a regular M4 for one last hurrah with a BMW straight 6. I am amazed at how much the wheel size impacts performance for the i4. Great review.
yes switch it. the range on the i4 will be annoying, and we dont know how well these bmw batteries will last.
Decision made. M4 it is... Probably
I'm doing the same, naturally aspirated, one more time. Also, EV charging here in Germany is hideously expensive.
@@simondelorean I'm reading Tesla SC costs in DE are €0.37 / kWh & Petrol is around € 1.39 / Litre. Petrol consumption will be, what, 10 litres / 100km for an M4? A Tesla M3 even at 20.8 kWh / 100km (That's driving a Tesla M3 like you stole it!) that's roughly 2.3 litres / 100km. Or am I missing something? 🔌
@@simondelorean M4 competition xDrive ordered. I4 onhold for now. Twin turbo heaven
I was reluctant to get a saloon, but as shown here the boot in the M3 is actually huge. Just been moving kids to Uni and no problems loading it up. 3 years in and I am not craving a hatchback. For long high speed journeys it is pretty comfortable especially as you are in Autopilot all the way, with the excellent stereo cranked up. Not going to bother with a Y as I am totally hooked on the Model 3 P. Don't think the performance Y would be quite as satisfying. Shame that BMW are still at least 5 years behind in their EV engineering. Bigger batteries, shorter range, slower and way more expensive.
Do you find the Model 3 is big enough for a family? Torn between Model 3 P and a Model Y! Heart vs Head, I think!
Fantastic review!! I own a 2019 435d Gran Coupe, and love BMWs. I also love the minimalist Model 3, but the wife can't stand them. Personally, I lean towards the Tesla, for the tech, efficiency, range and storage space, although the saloon-style rear entry is a let down over the 4 series hatch. Budget would force me to go with the Model 3, but although it can have a towbar fitted, it can't pull a 1500kg caravan, whereas the i4 M50, and the Polestar 2, for that matter, can. I really wish Tesla had looked into what us Brits do with cars, and rate the Model 3 for better towing. Shame the BMW is an ICE platform compromise, like the Polestar 2. Both would be a much better competitor to the Model 3, if they had tweaked the floor pan, to eliminate the tunnel, and gone with a flat battery like Tesla. Perhaps the Model Y will be the clear winner in this little race.
Great video, thank you for making it.
If you compromise in your design (i.e. stuck electronics in a gas/petrol car), it is only a temporary solution to the problem of your lack of vision in terms of electric vehicles. You have to design from the ground up to be battery electric. For interior space, range, performance, and safety.
Just ordered my M50 today… didn’t bother with “visibility pack” but “comfort pack” and “tech pack plus” a definite must. Colour… Brooklyn grey 👍🏻
Going blue calipers too.
This has to be one of most comprehensive comparison review of bmw i4 I’ve seen! Thank you!
Having owned Benz, Lexus, 5 series BMW and a Model 3 I have to say the Model 3 is my favorite. My wife will probably replace her Lexus next year and it’s quite likely we will go for either the model S or X instead
Got an S and haven't regretted it a moment. The thing is cavernous though, you can lose a couple of medium sized kids in it if you're not careful.
@@ZesPak 😆😆
Pass on the X. The doors will drive you crazy. awesome car, doors need to go.
I have had one on order for 6 months now and I would like to thank you for what I think was a balanced review. Having watched your review I am seriously considering cancelling my order, torque steer on a "performance" awd is not acceptable and the resl world range is worse than I was expecting. It was a toss up between the M50 and the M3, the 20k different in price made the M50 a logical choice but I think ultimately it will leave me wanting more.
How do you think the standard i4 fits in? Still expensive, but presumably less power and styling? Competitor for the sr/lr model 3s?
Thanks! Very competent and informative review! Looking forward to see more. Many reviews these days focus on picture and show but lack useful info from owner's (or potential owner's) perspective.
Looking at price and shape, I think many buyers will also cross-shop i4 with Model Y. So that would be a good comparison too. And if you prefer more comfort, smaller wheels (18, 19 on 3 and 19, 20 on Y) will be better choice. For me, non-performance models hit the sweet spot between handling, sportiness and everyday practicality (Model Y LR 20" owner).
Again, great and useful review, thanks!
Another great review Richard. A common criticism of the Model 3 by many mainstream reviewers, including yourself, is the overly firm suspension. If you look at Mat Watson' of Carwow review of the I4 vs Model 3, at 22 mins he launches the i4 and there's lots of wheel spin before full traction. I wondering if the harder suspension of the Model 3 allows it to stick the tyres more firmly to the ground to ensure there's no wheel spin when launching. So the compromise is having a comfortable daily driver versus having great launch times.
M50 is also 450kg or so heavier.
Another fantastic video review. Thanku. The Skoda Enyaq is winning a lot of awards at the moment and I can’t find any reviews on your channel. Have you done a review.?
No not had one yet. Would happily do so
Line closed down - Russian parts.
Good review, Its pretty much what I'd expected of it, charger network is still my biggest fear coming from a 3 LR but will be keeping order (ordered black with black bits) but agree with you needs to be more aggressive and looking forward to having it but more looking forward to Model Y Perf after it!
Very comprehensive video and well in depth. I would personally take the i4 everyday , every time over the Tesla (If I could afford either lol), I just can't get around that cutsey fish like look of the Tesla. The BMW just looks like a proper car not a toy/tech item. I'd prefer the RWD version of the i4 though with the largest battery pack. I think the removal of that front drivetrain could wake up the i4's steering , plus less weight means better efficiency.
"The BMW just looks like a proper car"
The reason you feel that way is because it's a proper gas car converted to an EV. (Not a good thing) Heavy, not very efficient, short range, slower charging etc.
At the current technical capability we have on ev's they need to be made more aerodynamic, hence why its looks different.
But you gain on range and efficiency.
@@RemoteSpeed007 But ask yourself when, if ever, you'd need 300 miles of range. I accept the point son the navigation and supercharger network - both better (at the moment), but the standard i4, although heavier, is very efficient and BMW can deliver over the air updates to improve it still.
@@trevoryong I don't need to ask myself, my car does 315 miles on a charge, when using an ev you charge 20-80% (Unless u have a lfp battery), so your actual range is much less, charging an ev over 80% takes too long and not good for the battery if done consistently. You really only using 60%-70%(when charging to 90%) of the range most of the time. Naturally all depends on what you personally need.
For me this BMW would not have enough range, but might work for you.
Ordered my M50 in Dravit Grey. Genuinely looking forward to it and honestly the only EV that has tempted me away from ICE.
That’s cool. To hear that’s what is moving you from ICE then that’s brilliant. Like I said, it’s horses for courses and it’s great there’s an increasing choice
It's a bmw and looks much better than ugly tesla lol. If I ever get electric car it will be a bimmer :)
Thank you Richard. Great review as always. Got to drive one 2 weeks ago. 'Compromise' is a good shout. Just feels like they rushed an ICE chassis into an EV. I'm a big BMW fan (own an M6) but my wife was also under impressed so I've just stuck a £100 deposit down on a Tesla Model Y for her. My Model 3LR (daily drive) will not be going anywhere. Also..Tesla SC network nails it.
It is not just the supercharger network. You can charge everywhere plus at the supercharger. That's what makes it an absolute no brainer. With any other car you deprive yourself of the best charging network and with the Tesla you have both.
@@whynotstartusingyourbrain8726 True 👍
@@whynotstartusingyourbrain8726 True, once Tesla opens up the supercharger network to Non-Tesla EV's though this will change the game massively.
@@AdamT19931 it will not. To get the same price as a Tesla a driver you will have to pay a monthly premium. If you don't you will pay double the price. And with the Tesla it all comes for free.
@@whynotstartusingyourbrain8726 You say it comes free, but you are paying a premium price for a Tesla itself. It will no longer be a no brainer to buy a Tesla when you can buy a 20k EV and still use the charging network, even if you have to pay a monthly premium. For the majority of UK road users, a 40K+ car is way out of peoples price range.
I am going to buy the BMW based on your report.
Can I assume the BMW has OTA -over the air updates?
What surprises me is that the “ultimate driving machine” isn’t as responsive or as sharp as a Model 3. I would not have expected that.
I think I would wait for a BMW designed from the ground up as an EV before I’d consider it.
i3 ;-)
Smart choice, car companies are trying to pull a fast one. Petrol Ms are where it's at for now. They're still playing catch up with electrics.
I have chosen Tanzanite Blue II for my i4 M50. I don’t like the Tesla’s interior, while I was very happy to find a nice interior. I have the ventilated comfort seats in Vernasca Mokka. I tried the Tesla Model S and the seats are for me very uncomfortable.
Tanzanite is lovely 👏🏼👌
Is that fold down center seat and ski hatch a standard feature of the BMW or is it a paid for option?
Tanzanite Blue for me. Great review. Agree with some of the criticisms, but they do not put me off, as they are not relevant to my use.
Once again, very informative and useful. nice work! Although I still think my Model 3 Performance is a better all-round EV and has a better value for the money even compare to the latest released EVs, it is always good to have more variety and choices on the market. Really welcome to see more and more EV coming out and they are becoming more competitive.
Great review, i think that the BMW I4 is a perfect switch from combustion to electric, especially for those who never owned an electric car.
Yes id agree but its not the best you can get for the money. It falls short of best in class to Tesla and they do it for less cost. I4 cant compete with the Tesla experience overall.
@@EVMYT In leasing, the m50 is consistently cheaper than even the M3LR (in Belgium)
@@EVMYT Yes i agree, but the quality of the BMW is way superior to Tesla, in the end it al comes down to people preferences.
One of my main criteria choosing a car is the Which report and sadly despite the great design and innovation the M3 Tesla fails to get Best Buy category due to poor build quality and this does not come from press reviews but from customer feedback.
It ticks the "just get in and drive" box without needing any familiarisation. With the Tesla there's benefit in learning how to operate.
On the flip side, going on a longer journey in the Tesla requires less acustomisation as you don't need to learn anything about charging networks or apps or optimising journey plans. In that way it's a great introduction to EVs.
I just did a test drive of the BMW i4 hours ago and I agree overall. The back seat just feels claustrophobic though and uncomfortable. Driving it was amazing, interior was awesome. That range, and back seats though...disappointing, especially for the price. Even the Iconic sounds are optional for 213 EUR! WTF?
et oui, c'est là où çà fait mal, les options ! j'avais une 435d et j'ai vu la différence de prix avec tesla, avec une liste d'équipements impressionnante (toit en verre, tous les sièges chauffants, alarme, dashcam, mode sentinelle, sono, etc... + mise à jour régulière)
I4 is amazing if you havent driven a Tesla.
@@EVMYT I have driven both and gotta say, BMW makes the best interiors on the market. Period. I don't like Tesla's minimalism but their tech is just superior. I am buying a Model Y soon.
C'est la vie.
@@EskiZagra Fellow Model Y owner here)) Tesla interiors are surely minimalistic. I like it stock but there are also many aftermarket parts and options already available and will be even more in the future (both for interior and exterior styling). Ergonomically, Tesla's interior is amazing, best I ever owned (20+ years, 12+ cars). Bought 2 central console organizers for my wife and 2 storage boxes under front seats from aliexpress, and pretty much that's it. Just great.
Can't imagine the pain of owning a new luxury model, tech laden rare vehicle from a manufacturer with questionable reliability with expensive tech support ten time zones away. No thanks. I owned a 94 S Class. One torture session was enough.
Bingo! BMW X6M owner here. I laugh every time someone tells me about BMW's inherent "build quality". Can't speak for the rest of the world but across the pond here in the states, there is zero incentive for stealerships to provide consistent and competent repair and support. Why? Because dealerships make their money off of service not sales. This is also why they are reluctant to sell electric vehicles.
Model 3 long range with performance upgrade best of all worlds:)
Hi Richard , you have mentioned a few time the model 3 ride and comfort are below the German cars . Are there any plans from Tesla to option air ride or some kind of adaptive dampers to the model 3 . There have been several leeks showing Tesla software for such suspension upgrade potentially down the road , but that was a few years ago .
Yes a bit of speculation but nothing advised. It has to be the cheaper car over s and X but they could do it better… they have some clever people at Tesla
Those rumors are spinning again since Tesla removed the words "lowered suspension" from the Model 3 Performance features description.
Really nice and in-depth review! Just what I wanted to see.
When I specced the bmw, I was at $80,000. That’s $20,000 more than the performance model Tesla.
There’s no way I’d ever even consider it at that price point.
Thanks for a very comprehensive review! Good job
Hi there, I know it has been a year since you posted this video but i wonder if you can help me know which of these two cars has more noise on the highway. During test drives I felt that Tesla has less insolation when driving above 90 km/hour speed, do you agree?
I am choosing between I4 edrive 40, Tesla Model 3 extended range and Volvo XC40 ultimate :)
Have you tried doing the apple car key thing with the i4?
Thank you for the review. I would value your thoughts. I bought a Model 3 Performance when it launched (and loved it). But the build quality frustrated me. I changed to a Taycan Turbo which has beautiful build. But it is too wide (width restrictors plus some narrow local lanes). I have ordered an i4 M50 as I had hoped it offered build quality with decent driving performance with a smaller size. I charge at home and rarely do long trips - so the Supercharger network is less of an issue. Should I change to the i4? Or is there something that would better suit me (either now or about to launch)? First world problems I know, but...
You might consider the Mercedes EQE when it comes out later this year
Great review. My Model 3 is due to change in 12 months and this BMW is on the list but… why is it so expensive! I can’t justify the extra from my model 3LR.
I currently drive the Model 3 Performance and recently ordered the i4 edrive 40. Why the switch? 1. I consider the BMW to have a vastly more satisfying interior, especially with full leather; 2. I prefer the BMW suspension as it soaks up bumps way better; 3. The BMW is noticeably quieter with much less tire and wind noice; 4. Here in SoCal Tesla is as ubiquitous as the Toyota Camry. That said, the Tesla is still a very fine automobile.
Great video. Cements my decision on an M3P arriving soon.
Looking sharp there Richard 😀 where did you get that coat from if you don’t mind me asking? 🙃
As for the cars, I don’t think I could bring myself to buy a repurposed ICE platform. Will be more on board with BMW once they start designing EVs from the ground up, like the carbon bodied i3.
Ha thanks. Most of my clothes are from Matalan but I splashed out in Zara for the coat 😂
I found your Channel when I was looking for any reviews of i4 and I'm glad I saw your videos. I was do up to bmw i4 m50 but now I'm not so sure. I'll probebly keep my order and choose it over tesla as I need more family car than a sport car though :)
I’m sure you’ll love it. It’s good and bad in a few ways but a good all rounder.
Model Y?
Personally I don’t mind the bigger hood. It makes it look more car if that makes sense. Something that the minimal interior of model 3 doesn’t help. I only wish BMW updates the graphics used in idrive8 and the horrific speed dials. Mbux is miles better than that. I can live with 30 miles less range or 0.5 second slowe 0-100 but I could not pay 60k to have a car with quality issues. BMW all the way for me. So it’s not about fanboys or haters. Is just different needs. Thank you for another great review. Keep up.
“Makes it look more car”? It’s just poor engineering from BMW I’m afraid. Absolute waste of space.
I like that the Edrive40 has a traction control button, and a hatchback with coupe looks. Check mate SR+.
@@TJTVI It is a rushed project yes. Even if the platform was built do accommodate both ev and ice cars.
BMW for me to, without a question
Looks more like a car, because it's a gas car converted to an ev . Which obviously suffers in efficiency, space, range, charging, weight and handling, tire ware, less charging stations, unproven battery and drive motors reliability. If these factors don't bother you, then you good.
To illustrate the importance of aerodynamics, by reducing the Model S drag figure from 0.32 to 0.24, Tesla managed to increase the range of the car by about 50 miles.
Great review my PCP is coming to a end in the BMW i3 I like the i4 especially in the racing green but monthly payments to much so probably end up going for the Tesla model 3
A better option might be the Model 3 Long Range for £47k plus £2k for Acceleration boost to get 0-100 time down to 3.9 secs. Will be more comfortable without the performance suspension.
I have 18s with snow tyres on my Model3P for the winter. I do prefer the ride on those. But come Easter the big boys go back on.
Spec - how much is the following in Model 3? Instrument cluster? HUD? Climate controls for rear passenger? Openable sunroof? Apple CarPlay and Android Auto? Heater that reliably works at -20C? Leather seats? Air suspension? Hatchback liftgate? Matrix LED headlights? Working rain sensor? Though loading for skying? Adaptive cup holders that hold any size cups or bottles? Ambient lights? Speed limit mode? Adaptive regen? More than 80kW of regen power? Offline maps? Actual speed limit sign detection? Radar that sees stopped cars? Surround view cameras? Wheel rim curb sensors?
Do you have a delivery date for your one? I have a eDrive40 in Mineral White on order since August. Latest date the dealer thinks is May :-(
I was originally told Feb but last update was end June…
@@RSEV Thanks for the reply. Fingers crossed these dates happen or even move closer. I see it has been noted below but I can confirm that monthly price is less than the Tesla, so they are confident on the residual cost.
I've not been in this BMW i4 M50
But seeing your review. I would agree with you.
I expected having the M badge it would be a more rewarding drivers car!
This guy works for Tesla. How do you compare a boring model 3 to a BMW m50? A Honda Civic interior to a luxury car. To each his own I guess …
You haven’t driven it but you’re disappointed with how it drives??
Balanced and informative. Hard to tell which would be more livable over time. I guess it depends on your individual needs. We’ll see, since I too have ordered an i4 in San Remo Green.
I love the colour, but my wife wanted the tacora red interior, so we ordered alpin white
@@hashtag_fu The dealer thought the San Remo Green would be great with the red interior, but I didn’t. I ordered the Cognac interior.
@@EVsteve80 that would have been my choice - if san remo green - too, great combination! But only the M-seat in cognac available, isn't it. To be honest, the tacora red, the cognac and the alcantara are the only colors I like from the list.
How does bmw headlight compare with Taycan and revised mod3? Especially low beam. Is bmw far ahead in brightnes, coverage and matrix functionality?
Just in low beam doesn’t make too much difference. Taycan and bmw are/can be cornering. Tesla static, although actually a nice spread as long as adjusted correctly.
Taycan cornering I have and they’re good but the full Matrix Taycan I’d live to have.
The bmw just has all the toys, cornering, matrix, and above 37mph I think it is also uses the laser lights. Focusing different lengths, moving around etc. it’s all very clever.
We have footage but I’m not sure how much will show. Will see if it’s good enough to make a video of
BMW is a nice car, my main beef would be the weight of the car is just not competitive. Making it less efficient, too heavy around sharp corners.
I've just driven 1600 miles from Sussex to the Alps and back in my Model 3 (Long Range) it performed really well on French motorways, no suspension issues on motorways from me.
Coming from a model 3, this would be tempting. From a model S or X, not so sure. We switched from a pair of BMW to a S and X and we do miss the build quality of our bimmers, but overall love our Tesla’s much more.
As much as this new BMW has caught our eye, we remember the endless maintenance issues and wonder how BMW will ensure that their electric car needs to be brought in for maintenance every year. Our Tesla’s have been nearly maintenance free.
Great video. Can we get a comparison with the edrive40 and SR+?
Good idea… we’ll write to bmw and ask for a car… 🤞
@@RSEV thank you. Everyone is comparing the AWD cars but like you I prefer the RWD feel of the older M cars.
@@ryanb9749 yeah model 3 SR is more M 😂
My old Tesla s P85+ did indeed remind me of my M5. Loved it
@@RSEV I have owned an '07 328i, '95 325is, '98 328is and the '20 SR+.
The '95 325is is by far my favorite because it's the most fun. I would drive it everyday, but it's way too expensive. I'm hoping that the i4 is more like the E36 and E90, I can feel that the SR+ is a good car, but the software really holds it back. (TCS mostly)
@@RSEV Agreed and e40 comparison - the car most people will drive and one that is more efficient, cheaper, and arguably more engaging than the m50 - to the model 3 would be even more valuable for most
Ahh so this is an M performance as I thought. Pretty sure this is the First video I've seen that actually specifies that. Guessing a proper M would be Mi4 (assuming that's allowed). Would be interesting to know how it compares to an M340i/M440i rather than a full fat M car. Great video as always
If it's an Mi4 the music will be done by Danny Elfman rather than Hans Zimmer though.
I so wish it was an Mi4 ☹️. It looks exactly same as a 420i if you check the website configurator.
I’d live with the front if it had aggressive looks, flared arches and a rear wheel drive bias. And the M button on the steering wheel in lieu of the heated one!
@@RSEV Add the Tri motor 2 door coup version and BMW would have something!
For the life of me, can’t figure out why anyone would buy this car. They stuck a battery and a couple of electric motors on an existing ICE car. Big bonnet, nothing underneath. Hollow space for absent driveshaft. No charging network. Substantially slower 0-60. Doesn’t handle as well. And it’s 15k more expensive!?! What am I missing here?
Test drive it, preferably back to back with a Tesla and you ll understand, the i4 is on another level. Also, it is not like they stuck a 9 v battery in a car. It is a properly designed EV but sharing the platform with ICE.
we need you to test drive and review BMW IX 50, which is EV from the ground up!
Really like the way you do your testing, and unlike Matt Watson, you seem to treat the cars with care. I'm a car guy, and whenever I see a presenter sit on the hood or lean on the car with jeans on, I feel like violence is the most tempting option. I have an M50 on order with most of the extras, and have had an hour testing it in rather horrible weather in the arctic. I have to agree with your conclusion. It is a comfortable car, more of a grand tourer than a track day car. I'm fine with that though. But like you, I'm not as blown away as I hoped I would be. Hopefully that will change with software updates. I'm upgrading from an i3, and honestly I think the i3 has better space in the back seats, and a more usable cargo space when the back seats are folded. And the steering feels sharper in the i3...
I had an i4 on order back in August. Unfortunately owing to chip shortages BMW had no idea when I might get it. So cancelled and bought a Polestar 2 instead. A LOT cheaper and really great car. Yes, it doesn't go as far as a Tesla (great cars I just don't like the design/interior) but the extra miles at motorway speeds doesn't really matter. If I am going a really long way I will have to charge at some point what ever EV I am driving. So far Gridserve and co have been great. Really helpful video - glad I went Polestar now.
The Polestar 2 is a great car - it just gives such a quality impression both looking at it and driving it. The Volvo versions based on same platform C40/XC40 are great cars as well. Drove both recently.
I've got an M50 + Tech Pack in Aventurine Red on order (ETA June) and have a couple of hours with the car booked on Monday, so I'm looking forward to seeing one in person for the first time. Honestly, choosing a colour was one of the more difficult choices and I think I'm going off the red. The Sanremo Green and Tanzanite Blue also look great in pictures, but I think after seeing the car in this video (and others) I'm reconsidering the red.
Thanks for another great update video. Maybe a y performance would be better as it would have hatchback and all Tesla +s if you need space .
Great back-to-back review of 2 excellent EVs, Richard - super video, as always.
Question, though...
Yes or no answer - do you think a current ICE 'executive saloon car' driver would feel more comfortable, more accepting switching to the i4 or the Tesla as their 1st EV...?
If the answer is 'Yes', then surely that's job well done...? 👍
Tesla is the easiest first EV by some way
I couldn't follow the summary, cuz the different colors of the M3 bumper compared to the hood and fender was taking all my attention. Is it the light? Is it cuz of the rain drops? Anybody else seeing it?
I just placed an order with my local dealer for the I40 M50 fully loaded in Dravit Grey. This will be my first BEV and 3rd BMW. In your comparison you left out the most important factor- vehicle appearance. The Tesla is just plain butt ugly these is no getting around that. Tesla calls their interior minimalistic I call it cheap. BMW has the luxury interior down, no one builds a better interior than BMW except for maybe RR. If Tesla would have brought a decent looking option to the market I would have joined the EV club long ago. Not all of us EV buyers are willing to sacrifice looks for range and BMW finally came to market with an option that marries both
I think the point about build quality is absolutely crucial. Transitioning from ICE to EV is a big step and having that familiarity and confidence in the build quality will make a big difference. Tesla has done amazing things but the build quality isn't one of them. Also surprised the video wasn't more critical of the ride quality - sure, it's nippy and agile but plenty of reviewers criticise the ride quality. In other M50 reviews, there has been a lot of praise for the sheer quietness and smooth comfort of the ride.
The BMW interior is nicer
Agree - Tesla is really ugly...and the interior reminds me of a Lada
And I think BMW cars just different and looks great...even the new grill I can live with, and they don't age. I have had a couple of BMs and I do love driving them.
@@ManUtd_Rules The question though is would you rather have this, an Audi etron GT, a Porsche Taycan or a Merc EQS?
After a full year with the model 3 I’ve used the froot (front boot) a total of maybe 5 times…
It’s not very useful cuz there’s no easy access, not really a big deal not to have for me
Never thought about that, but as you said it, in an indoor/many malls parkings you simply park as close as possible to he wall/fence/other cars and you simply cannot access it. Though might be good to have on long jorneys with children when every little bit of space counts.
I think it’s also about the fact that it’s not engineered very well under the skin. All those cables everywhere. Seems like lazy engineering.
@@TJTVI Probably a lot more at stake, like resing as much components as possible with the regular ICE one.
Can imagine, I use it daily on the Model S but it's easily accessible with the key fob.
@@FlorinArjocu well I guess that’s the problem and why the theme of this review was “compromise”. Not a good effort from BMW
Great review. I came from the Fully Charged puff piece on the beemer. This is an honest review. Tesla just need to make the Model 3 a bit softer in the ride.
I'm thinking of edrive msport version, I want rear wheel drive please and better range.
Very good and objective review. Advantage of an EV designed over an ICE converted car is pretty evident in the useable spaces available. The bracket support of the screen looks sloppy seen from the side.
On track? Who is tracking EV cars really? I feel the 0-60 and 1/4 times are really just trying to appeal to the younger crowd who probably cannot afford these cars anyway. I think the BM fills the gap for those who want a nice EV, but don’t necessarily want to shout “I’M DRIVING AN EV!!!”
I rarely ever see a Tesla being driven hard. Maybe somewhere there are young Tesla drivers driving them hard. But mostly, I see them in the middle lanes cruising along. I feel like a large percentage of Tesla owners couldn't care less about the performance and only use it when necessary.
There is no perfect car. Every car gonna have pros and cons. Its all depends wants more important to you if you can live with it. Personally, every video I watched about i4 I like the car more n more. One day, soon I'll be ordering one. Great review mate!
Test drove an i40 and I share your assessments compare to model 3. Finally someone with honest review who doesn't gush over BMW badge. Owned several BMWs, and still won a BMW 3 series. bottom line it's a good car but not there yet. Biggest issue, it's built on a normal 4 series platform. A huge mistake. BMW used to have daring, and edgy design but have become super conservative company not willing to take any chances unlike Tesla. Also I tried by can get over that ugly from grill. It's an electric car, why do you need a grill in the first place, and an ugly on at that. Tesla is superior almost in every aspect. two things missing, adaptive suspension, and hatchback. other than that I have no complaint for Tesla. Will be test driving PolStar soon. But I have feeling I'll be sticking with my model 3.
Model 3 upgrades I would pay extra for.....HUD and some form of adjustable suspension.
First of all, great perspective review from a person committed to EVs and understands the technology. Sports boost will probably give you the aggressive power you crave. Select Sports mode then select again to get Sports Boost. The M50 definitely does not have the "oomph" of the ICE M-class models in terms of design and overall handling. I also agree about the Harmon Kardon sound system. For the price of that option, you could buy a much better sound system or simply go without and free up that space in the trunk. You can also live monitor what's going on around the car from the myBMW app and view drive recordings. Also, the i4 has climate control, as do most EVs and PHEVs. I have yet to meet anyone that takes their Tesla on the track. Only UA-camrs that I'm aware of. A sunroof is standard on i4 in the US. The i4 is for those not quite ready to jump into a car that they believe is essentially an iPad on wheels. So, the i4 gives them the feel of an ICE car with an electric motor; easing the transition to EV. Also, the charging network for non-Tesla vehicles has grown tremendously. My home state of California has around 930K EVs with about 6.1K DC fast chargers and Tesla has 282 supercharger stations. So, Tesla really no longer has an advantage in this state. Access to fast chargers is not an issue for me or most who will charge at home. Needless to say, I'm sticking with BMW. The i4 edrive40 will be my 4th BMW with me transitioning from my PHEV 530e. I selected the RWD model edrive40 over the AWD dual-motor M50 due to the range which will save me $10K and allow room to option it up with the Drivers and Parking assistance packages, HUD which includes the Premium package, wireless charging, and drive recorder. The total cost will be 61K. In the US there are several tax rebates including $7500 federal tax (not available for Tesla) and California rebates of around another $2000 or more. That definitely pushes the needle, in my opinion, toward the BMW. It will be great to hear if you decide to go forward with your order. My car will be delivered in a couple of weeks. Good luck.
Another nice review - thanks. BMW late to the game - they need a dedicated model not a donor chassis from the ICE age. Glad we ordered the mach e - more practical, good performance, better looking, wireless Carplay and CHEAPER!
Mach-e GT starts at 68k, which is certainly not cheaper.
Unless you are trying to compare the lesser trims which don’t come anywhere close to M50 performance.
Impressive initial effort by Ford.
If the motor is in the front, then the tunnel is needed for the axle to diff... right?
There’s nothing to link front and rear. One motor at front and one at back
I suppose in one sense BMW have put together an EV on their existing ICE platform and it’s not bad and does have advantages and disadvantages over tesla, but overall Tesla is the more complete EV. Finance is what always sells these cars so if it was a choice between the two and finance was better on one over the other then that could be a good swing.
Currently thinking about going electric so just spending the time digesting all the info out there.
I don't really understand the regen paddle thing. I always have my model 3 in one pedal mode, and i'm not sure when i'd use paddles. Are the regen paddles mostly for people who would prefer the car to coast like a traditional ICE vehicle?
The i4 has adaptive regen which is great on the motorway. It freewheels which is a different feeling. My Model 3 always feels like it's being held back on the motorway.
is the Polestar 2 (which is cheaper than M50 but slower) still a valid option? it’s a fastback too, comfortable if you skip the Performance package.
you can even download 65hp but then i have to pay more insurance 😂.
you get both android auto and apple carplay (soon) which the Model 3 lacks, and it’s a saloon not a fastback.
I’ve had Polestar before and done a similar video about it. Very good in many way.
@@RSEV i will check it out cheers
The new 'i' cars from BMW are proving pretty decent but it does feel like we're waiting for the likes of BMW to build new electric platforms from the ground up. I look forward to that.
3:13 - 'It's not been designed from the ground up as an electric car."
Nothing more to see here.
So? Why is this a problem if the car is actually good? I'd rather have this (ordered actually) than a Tesla 3 that was designed from the ground up as a cheap nasty car on top of a good electric drivetrain
@@vaddoc Why is this a problem if you’ve already ordered the car?
Can you test the Skoda Enyaq IV 80?
Very good review ! Thanks sir !
Exceptional review of both, thank you!
21:00 - the whole point of one pedal driving is that you can dynamically adjust the amount of regeneration by lifting your foot a little or a lot. Thank god it doesn't have paddles!
Great job on this detailed unbiased comparison 👍
The integration of carplay in the gauges/HUD is an awesome bonus, can't believe other carmarkers didn't understand noone uses their native GPS anymore.
Now the "transmission tunnel" can actually be useful, hidding cells inside that makes more room for the foot caves.
Sadly the grille, the poor screen integration, and the price are strong negatives for the BMW.
I'm looking forward to Audi A6 EV
If you do lots of long journeys.. Well, where would the BWM charge?
I was weighing up between an i4 e40 msport or a long range model 3 and after watching this I'm glad I went long range model 3. I'd also wanted a 3 series estate but lead times were a joke and higher company car tax made the Tesla a sensible option. Delivery next month.
We have a Tesla M3LR and recently decided to add another EV. I went through the lot: Taycan 4S, etron GT, iPace, polestar 2, EQC. When I finally got into the i4 it just felt right. Made me think back to my old 650i and reminded me how much I loved the HUD.
In comparison the Tesla is better value and a fantastic EV. However the BMW just feels more special, it makes the Tesla interior feel like public transport. Needless to say we ordered a m50 in blue 😎
Should have gone for the model Y! Little patience and you would have had a much better vehicle!
@@pauldbeer no thanks, I considered it but then realised I don’t want a hideous obese version of our M3. 🤷🏻♂️
Finally someone that gets it.
same dilemma here - have both the M3P and i4 M50 on order; not only did Tesla already provide a 2022 VIN# in 1 month since order (BMW couldn't do that 9 months in a row, still estimated date being pushed every time), also 2022 Tesla M3P is further improved now with Ryzen chip, laminated rear windows, new hairpin windings motor and many many other updates, both hardware and software. I think I'll keep both orders and then just see which one I keep, but also very disappointed in the BMW
I agree with your comments on color and have ordered the car in Brooklyn Grey with white interior. I do not understand why anyone would opt for the M50 when the M440 is less money, plenty fast and has longer range. Either way the car is basically a 430 gas model with a battery and wide dash display. They designed a beautiful concept car which should have been the final design to distinguish it from the gas version. One wonders what BMW was thinking or not thinking.
Money, that's what. They know the average consumer won't care. I get it but it's lazy, which infuriates me.